[Solved] Gupta Coins: Gold Dinars and Imperial Iconography

Which one of the following statements about Gupta coins is not correct?

[CDS 2020 (II)]

⚡ Generate AI Quick Summary

Correct Option: D

The Guptas are famous for issuing a vast number of gold coins known as Dinars. Copper coins were issued but were not the most numerous denomination of this period.

A. Gupta kings issued a large number of gold coins known as Dinar.

B. Chandragupta II, Kumaragupta I, Skandagupta and Budhagupta issued silver coins.

C. The obverses of coins are carved with the images of the kings and on the reverse are carved deities.

D. The largest number of coins issued by the Guptas were of copper.

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

Gupta coinage is considered the zenith of Indian numismatic art, characterized by high-purity gold and intricate portrayals of the royal court and Hindu pantheon.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Guptas issued coins in gold (Dinar), silver (Rupaka), and copper. However, their gold coins (Dinars) are their most numerous and famous surviving issues, reflecting the era's prosperity.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is correct; the gold Dinar was the standard for high-value transactions.

Logic 2: Option B is correct; silver was introduced to facilitate western trade after defeating the Shakas.

Logic 3: Option C is correct; the obverse typically showed the king (as archer, lion-slayer, etc.), and the reverse showed goddesses like Lakshmi.

Logic 4: Option D is incorrect; copper coins were issued but are far less common than their gold counterparts.

Historical Logic Quest

"What symbol replaced the Kushan trident on Gupta coins?"

The 'Garuda Dhwaja' (standard with the mythical bird Garuda), which was the dynastic symbol of the Guptas.

The Topper's Edge

"The sheer volume and quality of Gupta gold coins support the 'Golden Age' thesis regarding the empire's economic strength."

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